Disc Herniation

A disc herniation means disc material extends beyond the normal disc margin. Depending on location and size, it may press on nearby nerves or the spinal canal, but many disc herniations are also found in people without severe symptoms.

Also seen as: herniated disc, disc extrusion.

Disc bulges and herniations are common on spine imaging, especially with age and degenerative change.

• Age-related disc degeneration
• Mechanical strain or lifting injury
• Acute worsening of chronic disc disease
• Associated spinal stenosis or nerve compression

• The report mentions severe canal narrowing or nerve root compression
• Symptoms include weakness, numbness, or bowel or bladder changes
• There is progressive neurologic deficit

• Correlate imaging with symptoms and exam
• Manage some cases conservatively
• Consider specialist referral if nerve compression is significant

• Left paracentral disc herniation at L5-S1.

  See phrase explanation

• Disc extrusion causing mass effect on the traversing nerve root.

  See phrase explanation

Educational information only. Always consult your clinician for medical advice.

This page is educational only and should be used to understand report language, not to diagnose a condition or replace clinician review.